1. a climbing spurge, Euphorbia milii splendens, of Madagascar, having stems covered with spines.
2. See crown of thorns starfish .
3. a painful burden, as of suffering, guilt, anxiety, etc.: from the wreath of thorns placed on Jesus' head to mock Him before He was crucified. Matt. 27:29; Mark 15:17; John 19:2, 5.
[ bef. 950; ME; OE ]